William enlisted in January 1914. He was 20 years and 10 months old, and was a Clerk by trade at the time. He embarked on H.M. Transport Ship 'Royal Edward' at Davenport, then entered the war in Egypt on 11th August 1915. He was onboard the 'Royal Edward' when it was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine UB-14. His body was missing, presumed to have drowned during the sinking. He was the son of James William and Agnes Hawkes of 137 Upper Brook Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, Manchester.